Photo by Love Imagery
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- Monmouth Arts will host its annual gala "POP! A Night at the Lanes" on Thursday, October 23, 2025, an evening inspired by the playful spirit of Pop Art. With a nod to the legacy of Andy Warhol, the event will celebrate a remarkable group of creative and community leaders, including legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Darlene Love.
This immersive event promises an evening of bold visuals, retro flair, and vibrant energy. Hosted at the iconic Asbury Lanes and co-hosted by national singer/songwriter/entertainer Remember Jones and local performer and fan favorite emcee Stephen Rubino, return to the mic.
The evening kicks off with the exclusive “Sip Like Andy” VIP Cocktail Reception from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at the Soundbooth in The Asbury Hotel (210 5th Avenue). Following the reception, guests will head to the iconic Asbury Lanes (209 4th Avenue) for the main event—“POP! ‘til You Drop” Dinner Celebration, running from 6:30pm to 9:30pm.
Monmouth Arts is proud to honor Darlene Love, Grammy Award-winning vocalist and Rolling Stone’s pick as “the greatest singer of all time.” Her legendary career and contributions to American music make her a fitting centerpiece for this celebration of artistic excellence. Darlene has thrilled audiences throughout Monmouth County, performing at iconic venues like the Stone Pony, Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, and the Count Basie Center for the Arts.
“I’m truly honored to be recognized by Monmouth Arts, an organization that celebrates creativity, community, and the power of the arts to bring people together,” said Darlene Love. “As an artist, there’s nothing more meaningful than knowing your work has touched hearts and stood the test of time. This recognition means the world to me.”
In addition to Darlene Love, Monmouth Arts will honor a dynamic group of leaders in the arts and community. Honorees include Val Emmich, singer-songwriter and author of Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel; Eileen Chapman, arts advocate and curator of the Bruce Springsteen Archives; Ansell Grimm & Aaron, P.C., recognized for their support of civic and creative initiatives; and Knowledge Bennett, a contemporary artist known for bold works that blend pop culture with social commentary.
“We are thrilled to honor prominent community leaders who have positively impacted the arts in Monmouth County,” said Teresa Staub, Executive Director of Monmouth Arts. Their many years of commitment to the arts deserve recognition. We look forward to honoring each of them on October 23rd.”
Past gala honorees have included renowned figures such as Kevin Smith, Pat Battle, Max Weinberg, Blondie, David Bryan, Vincent Pastore, Maureen Van Zandt, Bobby Bandiera, Jake Clemons, Chef David Burke, Jenn Hampton, Danny Clinch, Marilyn Schlossbach, and Diane Turton.
As the largest fundraiser for Monmouth Arts, the annual gala supports programs and services that enrich the local arts community, including grant opportunities, marketing support, art exhibitions, professional workshops, and signature programs such as the Monmouth County Senior Art Show, Monmouth Arts Teen Arts Festival, and Creative Expressions Arts and Wellness program.
“POP! A Night at the Lanes” is more than an event — it’s a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the power of artistic expression to bring people together.
Tickets are available for purchase online or by calling 732-212-1890 ext. 100 or online.
Interested in sponsorship, advertising, or auction donations? Contact Teresa Staub at 732-212-1890 ext. 100 or [email protected].
Darlene Love - Lifetime Achievement in Music Award. Darlene Love is a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Grammy Award-winning vocalist, and Rolling Stone’s pick for “the greatest singer of all time.” Known as the “Golden Voice of the 1960s,” she rose to fame with hits like “He’s a Rebel” and “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” and has performed alongside legends such as Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Dionne Warwick, and The Beach Boys. Discovered by Phil Spector, her influence is far-reaching—Cher credits her start to a moment when she filled in for Darlene on a recording session.
Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2011 by Bette Midler, Darlene also starred in the Oscar-winning documentary 20 Feet from Stardom, which earned her a standing ovation at the Academy Awards. She’s widely celebrated as the “Queen of Christmas,” having performed her holiday classic for 28 years on The Late Show with David Letterman and now annually on The View. In 2023, she performed at Christmas at Rockefeller Center with Cher and was honored by Bruce Springsteen with an RIAA Platinum Album plaque. With a career that continues to soar, Darlene Love remains an icon whose voice and impact are truly timeless.
Knowledge Bennett - Artistic Achievement in Visual Arts. Knowledge Bennett is a self-taught contemporary artist known for his bold, large-scale silkscreen paintings that merge pop culture with historical and political themes. Born in Asbury Park, he rose from a local athlete to a nationally recognized artist, with his works featured in Art Basel and the Smithsonian’s “Men of Change” exhibition. His provocative series—including Obama Cowboy, Cojones, and Orange is the New Black—challenges viewers to confront issues of race, power, and identity. Bennett also founded The KNOW Contemporary gallery in Los Angeles and is expanding into photography and film. Beyond the canvas, he’s a philanthropist, mentor, and creative force committed to uplifting youth and community.
Val Emmich - Excellence in the Arts Award. Val Emmich is a novelist, singer-songwriter, and actor. He is the author of three novels, including. The New York Times bestseller Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel, based on the hit Broadway show, and The Reminders, which was a Barnes & Noble Discover New Writers selection. His career as a singer-songwriter spans over two decades and includes more than a dozen full-length albums. As an actor, he has appeared on numerous TV shows, including 30 Rock, Ugly Betty, and Vinyl, and has been featured in multiple commercials. A native of Monmouth County, he currently lives in Jersey City, New Jersey, with his wife and two daughters.
Eileen Chapman - Community Service Award. Eileen Chapman is the Director of the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music at Monmouth University, where she helped transform a grassroots effort into a nationally recognized cultural institution. A cornerstone of the Jersey Shore music scene, she has managed legendary venues like the Stone Pony and McLoone’s Rum Runner, co-founded the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation, and opened New Jersey’s first CD store. Eileen has also served on the Asbury Park City Council and boards, including the Asbury Park Historical Society and the Music Foundation, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to community, music, and cultural preservation.
Ansell Grimm and Aaron, PC - Business Leadership Award. Ansell Grimm & Aaron is a premier New Jersey law firm serving clients since 1929, with offices in Ocean, Woodland Park, and Philadelphia. They offer expert legal services in litigation, real estate, commercial transactions, personal injury, and estate planning, known for their strategic and client-focused approach. Beyond the law, the firm is committed to community support, backing veterans’ services, healthcare, and youth education programs. They are also strong advocates for the arts, providing sponsorships, pro bono legal help, and fundraising for local arts and cultural initiatives. This blend of legal excellence and civic dedication defines Ansell Grimm & Aaron’s impact on both clients and the communities they serve.
Monmouth Arts is a leading, independent 501 (c) (3) arts advocacy organization that delivers essential programs and services to artists, member organizations, and arts affiliates, ensuring the arts thrive in and throughout Monmouth County. As Monmouth County’s official county arts agency, its mission is to enrich the community by inspiring and fostering the arts. Monmouth Arts' programs are made possible in part through funding from the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Commissioners and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
